Autism in the News – 02.23.11

Girl, 7, who drowned in Lawton had struggled to overcome autism (Lawton, Okla.)
Doctors once said Savannah Martin would never talk, but she defied the early diagnosis and started to speak. Then she learned to read. She even tried to learn to swim. Read more.

Autism bill sent to McDonnell (The Franklin News-Post)Legislation that would require health insurance companies to provide coverage for autism for children between the ages of 2 and 6 now goes to Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell for his signature. Read more.

Parents lose Supreme Court appeal in vaccine lawsuit (Washington, DC.)The Supreme Court closed the courthouse door Tuesday to parents who want to sue drugmakers over claims that their children developed autism and other serious health problems from vaccines. The ruling was a stinging defeat for families dissatisfied with how they fared before a special no-fault vaccine court. Read more.

Free Autism seminar in Clark March 2 (Clark, N.J.)A series of free seminars is being offered to parents and teachers of children with disabilities on effective teaching of social skills. One of the events in the seminar series will be held locally in Clark. Read more.